Initial Thoughts:
For my birthday this year, I received this AJ Fernandez / Drew Estate Connecticut sampler. And, while I was excited about the Undercrown Shades that I've reviewed here, I wasn't particularly looking forward to the other half of the sampler and today's cigar, the AJ Fernandez Iron Horse Connecticut Toro.
However, after removing the Iron Horse from the cellophane, the cigar smelled good and looked good, so I might have to readjust my expectations on this stick.
After punching the end, the draw had almost the perfect amount of resistance. I could taste lemon, grass, and hints of construction paper.
CigarScore:
Brand: AJ Fernandez
Line: Iron Horse, Connecticut
Size: 6 x 50
Cut: Punch
Light: Torch
Price: $8.40
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Smoke Time: 80 minutes
I hate being wrong, and it looks like this cigar is gonna make me admit my error. While I had low expectations for the AJ Fernandez Iron Horse Connecticut Toro, I must admit, the draw is almost perfect and the flavors are delicious, at least through the first half of the cigar.
And, so far, while this cigar doesn't cost a lot, there is nothing “budget-y” about this cigar.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking to try something new, or if you've got a hankering for a breakfast cigar that pairs well with coffee, you should give the AJ Fernandez Iron Horse Connecticut Toro a try. In almost every way, the Iron Horse was a great cigar.
However, there were a couple of visual blemishes on the Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper. Additionally, in the final third, the smooth, creamy, and rich flavors of the majority of the cigar disappeared, and the cigar became a little harsh and mildly unpleasant.
Despite its minor flaws, I really enjoyed this cigar. And, if you can get it on sale, you can pay (well) under $5 per stick. Because of the enjoyable experience, great flavors, and a rock-solid price point, the AJ Fernandez Iron Horse Connecticut Toro earns a CigarScore 4.
